Most common 1997 GMC Sierra 2500 problems
Share of the 14 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
GMC Sierra 2500 complaints by model year
Best Sierra 2500 years: 2012, 2014, 2013. Years to avoid: 2024, 2025, 2020, 2021, 2022. Compare all years →
1997 GMC Sierra 2500 recalls (2)
Seats
Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks. One or two of the front seat mounting bolts were not installed. This does not comply with the requirements of FMVSS no. 207, "seating systems."
Remedy: Dealers will check all seat mounting bolts and install any missing bolts.
Seats
Vehicle description: extended cab and 2-door utility vehicles equipped with reclining seats and the easy-entry feature. These vehicles exhibit a condition in which a pinch point exists in the recliner mechanism that can trap and pinch a person's hand or finger(s) when the easy-entry feature is activated.
Remedy: Dealers will install a protector cover over the recliner mechanism.
What 1997 GMC Sierra 2500 owners say
Brakes
Was preparing to stop at about 30 mp in dry conditons during normal stopping operation, but brakes became inoperative, causing consumer to hit pedestrian. Dealer cannot determine problem.
Brake line failure on 1997 GMC pickup. @ different occasions and separate areas in brake lines. Old lines discarded. Appeared to be a rust issue.
1997 GMC Sierra 2500 engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0L 8-cyl | 4-speed automatic | RWD | 14 / 17 / 15 |
| 5.0L 8-cyl | 5-speed manual | RWD | 14 / 19 / 15 |
| 5.7L 8-cyl | 4-speed automatic | RWD | 14 / 17 / 15 |
| 5.7L 8-cyl | 5-speed manual | RWD | 13 / 18 / 15 |
| 6.5L 8-cyl turbo diesel | 4-speed automatic | RWD | 14 / 17 / 15 |
EPA ratings. Class: Full-size pickup.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1997 GMC Sierra 2500 a good car?
Based on 14 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1997 Sierra 2500 rates better than average: 73% fewer complaints than a typical year of the Sierra 2500 at the same age. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 1997 GMC Sierra 2500?
The brakes — 7 complaints, 50% of all complaints for this model year, most often about antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip. Next are the windows, wipers & sunroof (2) and wheels & tires (2).
How many recalls does the 1997 GMC Sierra 2500 have?
There are 2 recalls for the 1997 GMC Sierra 2500, the most recent from October 7, 1997 (seats). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the GMC Sierra 2500?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2012, 2014 and 2013. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 2024, 2025, 2020, 2021 and 2022. See the full GMC Sierra 2500 years comparison.
At what mileage do 1997 GMC Sierra 2500 problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 100,000 miles; 0% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.